PDP Chieftain Challenges Legitimacy of New EFCC Chairman's Appointment

Controversy Surrounds Appointment of New EFCC Chairman

Daniel Bwala, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has raised concerns about the legality of Ola Olukoyede’s appointment as the new Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a recent interview on Arise News, Bwala asserted that Olukoyede’s appointment is both unlawful and illegal, citing specific provisions within the EFCC Establishment Act.

Qualification Discrepancies and Violations

Bwala emphasized that Olukoyede’s qualifications do not meet the requirements outlined in Section 2 of the EFCC Establishment Act. According to this section, the EFCC Chairman must have a background as a serving or retired member of a security or law enforcement agency. Furthermore, the Act stipulates that the appointed individual should possess 15 years of relevant experience in law enforcement and hold a rank not lower than that of an assistant commissioner of police.

Olukoyede’s Background and Inadequacies

The PDP chieftain pointed out that Ola Olukoyede is a private legal practitioner and has never been associated with any security or law enforcement agency. This disqualifies him from the position according to the EFCC Act’s criteria. Bwala argued that Olukoyede’s brief tenure as Chief of Staff under the previous EFCC Chairman, Magu, and subsequent role as the Commission’s Secretary, which collectively lasted less than six years, do not satisfy the Act’s requirement of 15 years of relevant experience in law enforcement.

Doubts and Concerns

Expressing his concerns about the appointment, Bwala questioned the motive behind Olukoyede’s selection as the new EFCC Chairman. He suggested that the appointment might be part of a larger undisclosed mission, raising uncertainty and unease among the public. In conclusion, he urged for divine intervention and assistance for Nigeria in this regard.